Ilmenite is a primary ore in the manufacture of titanium a vital element used to manufacture strong and lightweight alloys for use in spacecraft, ships, medical appliances, jewellery and many other uses that take advantage of its stable, corrosive resistant and bio compatible properties. The majority of titanium is used in the form of titanium dioxide a white powder that has a number of industrial uses including coatings, plastics, cements and cosmetics. I traveled from Rio Tinto's large metallurgical complex at Sorel-Tracy Quebec east of Montreal to their plant at Le Havre St. Pierre near the Labrador border. The Havre St. Pierre mine is the largest solid ilmenite deposit in the world.

Trading Places Titanium

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Our departure from Le Havre St. Pierre is rendered unworldly due to snow flurries and the dock lighting. Dolphins, round components to a pier allowing for the manuevering and fendering of ships - appear to be suspended in air.